By Rachel Roberts; Idaho Statesman
Harmful algae blooms can have negative impacts on humans, pets and environments Harmful algal blooms are blooms of species of algae that can have negative impacts on humans, marine and freshwater environments, and coastal economies.
Public health officials are asking the public to steer clear of Lake Cascade this weekend. The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare cited possible cyanobacterial harmful algal blooms in the lake, according to a tweet from the department. Samples are being tested but won’t be available until Monday.
“Until then, we recommend people and animals stay out of the water,” the tweet said. Among the largest bodies of water in the state, Lake Cascade is a popular summer recreation area because of its opportunities for fishing, boating, water skiing and other activities.
Cyanobacteria, sometimes called blue-green algae, can cause illness in humans and animals. Symptoms in people can include stomach pain, vomiting, or diarrhea; headache, fever, tiredness, or other general symptoms; skin, eye, nose, or throat irritation; and neurological symptoms such as muscle weakness or dizziness, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
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